Rising Spring project takes advantage of lower bid
By Randy Bell
Construction jobs are often plagued by cost overruns. But Mississippi College and its development partners on the much-anticipated Rising Spring project have been pleasantly surprised by a recent bid for some of the work.
“During the planning of Phase 2, estimates were prepared for what it might cost to install the electrical package, mainly the street lights and power to the park square,” said MC’s Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer Laura Jackson. “The winning bid came in under the estimate, which allowed us to allocate those ‘savings’ to extend the road on the western end of the project.”
“Having that road extension will open up that section of land for future development,” says Jackson. “We continue to have discussions with interested parties, but no final decisions have been made.”
With Phase 2 construction underway, attention is focused on Rising Spring’s centerpiece, the park square, which will include a water feature supplied by the development’s namesake, Robinson Spring. The Board of Aldermen at its October 21 meeting approved a site plan for the park square.
Jackson says it’ll be exciting to see that part of the project taking shape in the months to come.
“The park will have an amphitheatre-type stage for small programs, with a grassy area for seating. The park will also feature the fountain where the natural spring comes to the surface. All of this area was carefully planned to provide a lively open outdoor space where families can gather and enjoy community time.”
Probity Contracting Group, LLC of Florence has a contract to build the park square, and a Madison company, Bulldog Construction, Inc., is putting in sidewalks and handling other concrete work during Phase 2.
